Safety & training
Rider safety is our top priority!
Use this page as your go-to safety guide and training resource for Ride for Roswell 2026
Our top priority is that every participant, whether a seasoned rider or first-timer, arrives home safely. That means riding with care, planning ahead, and supporting one another every step of the way.
Picking your route
We encourage all riders to select a route that coincides with their cycling abilities. Our team is here to provide training and preparation resources for riders who select routes 65 miles or more.
Route: from start to finish
When you select a route, please be prepared to complete the journey from the start line to the finish line. Riders are encouraged to contact a family member or friend in advance of Ride Weekend to be their point person if, for some reason, they cannot finish their route. Due to the size of this event, Ride for Roswell staff and volunteers are only able to pick up riders and provide transportation in emergency situations.
Gear check & bike prep
Having the right equipment is key to a safe ride! We encourage you to visit our local bike shop partners listed above to buy new gear and get your bike inspected, tuned up or upgraded. Be sure to check the cyclist’s ABCs.
Air pressure
Air pressure
Squeeze your tires to make sure they’re not flat or under-inflated. Use a tire gauge and pump or visit a local bike shop for a fix.
Brakes
Brakes
Check your brakes to see if they are tight enough. If they are squeaky, that might mean they are too tight. Your local bike shop can help.
Chain
Chain
Look over your bike chain and make sure it’s lubricated. If it is rusty or dry, have your local bike shop grease it or even replace it.
Rules to follow + guidelines
If you are not familiar with riding a bicycle on public roads, we have provided some helpful tips and links with great information to help keep you safe and knowledgeable!
Ride to the right
Always ride to the right unless to pass a slower cyclist. Always pass on the left by calling out “on your left!” and using your bell as you approach and pass.
Don't ride more than two abreast
Traveling in groups of more than two riders side by side makes it difficult for both cars and other riders to pass safely.
Obey traffic signals, devices and signs
Follow directions given by law enforcement and fire safety personnel, route guides, riding marshals and other Ride for Roswell volunteers.
Use verbal commands and hand signals
Use loud and clear communication! Declare your intentions by using hand signals to alert drivers and riders when you turn, slow or stop.
Adjust speed
All routes are loops and riders merge with other routes as they turn around to ride back to the finish line. Areas where routes converge are neutral zones. Slow down in neutral zones where routes merge, including the finish line zone where riders share the road and are not permitted to “race to the finish.”
Keep ears free
Do not use headphones or cell phones while riding so that you can hear your fellow riders, as well as emergency directions. Your cell phone is an important safety tool in cases of emergency, so bring a fully charged phone to the Ride.
Children
New York State law prohibits taking a child under 1 year on a bicycle ride in a bicycle child seat, trailer, sidecar or any other carrier. All children in attendance must be accompanied by a supervising adult guardian who agrees to ride with the child on the same route.
Hydrate
Make sure your water bottle is securely fastened to your bike and drink water before you are thirsty!
Dogs & pets
Any dogs and pets other than approved service animals are prohibited on routes and at the event.
Technology for your ride
All registered riders will receive instructions to download and use the rider tracking app TraQCentral. This app helps us respond to your calls for assistance on the route. TraQCentral must be downloaded before Ride Weekend. Riders with the app will receive a text message invitation on Friday, June 26 to activate their account before they begin their route on Saturday. The Ride line at 716-THE-RIDE (716-843-7433) is also monitored for calls for assistance.
Ride With GPS helps you navigate your route with a mobile map and turn-by-turn directions. You can also download your route to your Garmin or Wahoo device – all for free with a special link you will receive before the Ride. If you prefer not to use your mobile device, you can follow posted route arrows.
eBikes at Ride for Roswell
While a traditional road bike or hybrid bike is preferred, some riders may want to complete their routes on an eBike. The good news is that class 1, pedal assist eBikes are allowed at Ride for Roswell. To ensure a safe and positive ride experience, however, there are some factors you should consider.
Local bike shop partners!
Your local bike shop is a great resource as you prepare for Ride for Roswell! Our bike shop partners can assist you with a wide range of needs from supplies to fittings, tune-ups and even group trainings.
Don't have a bike for the event? No problem!
Unlimited Biking is the official bike rental partner for Ride for Roswell! Rent a Top Quality Cannondale or Specialized Bike.
All bikes will be brought near the start line and picked up near the finish line for convenience. Helmets are provided with all rentals. All rentals must be booked in advance!
